By Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with faith-based institutions to advance youth development, promote responsible citizenship, and strengthen peaceful coexistence ahead of the 2026 National Catholic Youth Convention scheduled to hold in Jos.
The Governor gave the assurance on Tuesday at the New Government House, Rayfield, Jos, when a delegation representing the Archbishop and Bishops of the Jos Ecclesiastical Province, led by Professor Monsignor Cletus Gotang, paid him a courtesy visit to formally notify him of the forthcoming convention and seek government support for its successful hosting.
Speaking on behalf of the Catholic Bishops, Monsignor Gotang disclosed that the convention, themed “Taking Courage, I Have Overcome the World” (John 16:33), is expected to attract thousands of Catholic youths from all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.
He explained that the gathering is designed to deepen the faith of young people, foster national unity, promote responsible citizenship, and strengthen their commitment to peace, service, leadership, and nation-building.
The church delegation described Plateau State as a land known for its hospitality, cultural diversity, and resilience, noting that choosing Jos as host city presents an opportunity to further project the state as a place where people of different backgrounds can live and thrive in harmony.
They also appealed for government support in the areas of security, healthcare, transportation, sanitation, and logistics.
In his response, Governor Mutfwang expressed appreciation to the Catholic leadership for selecting Plateau State as venue for the national gathering, describing it as a strong vote of confidence in the state’s reputation for hospitality, religious tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
He stressed that the convention goes beyond a routine religious gathering, describing it as a strategic investment in the future of the country.
“This conference is an investment in youth. It’s not just a conference; it’s not just a gathering. It is an investment in the future of our country,” the Governor said.
Governor Mutfwang further emphasized the importance of moral and spiritual values in shaping responsible and productive citizens, noting that investing in young people remains one of the most impactful ways to secure national development and social stability.
He assured the delegation of the state government’s full support for the convention, pledging collaboration with the Church to ensure its success.
He also described the Church’s decision to host the event in Jos as a “step of great faith,” adding that it sends a strong message that Plateau State remains safe, welcoming, and open.
“We are telling the world that Plateau is not a place to run away from,” he stated, assuring that participants would be warmly received and adequately supported.
The Governor commended the Catholic Church for its continued prayers and contributions to peacebuilding and national development, noting that government and faith-based institutions must continue to work together in promoting unity, justice, and shared prosperity.
He reiterated that youth empowerment and peacebuilding remain central to his administration’s development agenda, expressing confidence that the convention would inspire positive values and strengthen national cohesion among young Nigerians.
